This public consultation asks for views on the proposal to create a Combined Authority, currently known as the North East Leadership Board, to cover Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland.

Earlier this year, the North East Leadership Board submitted a formal bid to Government to establish a Combined Authority by April 2014.

The new body will formally bring together all seven councils by working collectively on transport, skills and economic growth.

It will not replace individual councils.

Coun Mick Henry, pictured, chair of the North East Leadership Board, said: “This is the next step to securing future economic growth for our area.

“It will allow us to gain additional decision-making powers and funding from Government, which can best happen by joining forces.

“Not only will we be able to act as a single voice to tackle key priorities, but we will have better opportunities for attracting investment to the area, creating more jobs and improving transport infrastructure.”